How to Get English as a Second Language (ESL) Certified

If you've ever thought about travelling for long periods of time, you may (or may not) have considered teaching English while doing so. Supporting your adventure with extra cash, creating a support network with other teachers at your school, and making a positive societal impact are just some of the reasons you'll want to teach abroad.

The only potential challenge you might face is getting your foot in the door. To do that, you'll need an ESL teaching certificate. However, the world of ESL certificates can be difficult to navigate and somewhat confusing. Not to worry! I'm here to guide you through the three most common ways to get ESL certified.

Getting ESL certified has never been easier. There are three main methods: online, in-person, or blended. Each comes with its own pros and cons, so here are a few things to consider.

Online courses offer an easy, affordable, and flexible way of getting ESL certified. Online ESL certificates are most commonly referred to as Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificates, and they come in a wide range of options. Most countries require a course to have a certain number of hours, so to be on the safe side, aim for a certificate with at least 120 hours or more.

Advantages:

• Cheaper prices compared to other methods

• Flexible around your work or study schedule

• Great for learning the basic theory of ESL teaching

• Ability to get ESL certified wherever you are

Disadvantages:

• Confusing to find a reputable provider. There are many different companies with varying reputations, prices, and course materials

• Risk of some illegitimate certificates

• Lacks the practical knowledge gained from being in an actual classroom

• No opportunity to receive additional help throughout the course

In-person ESL certificates have the most history and are often run by nationally or internationally recognised brands. The most well-known of these is probably the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA), accredited by Cambridge University. These courses offer the most well-rounded ESL education but can come with a hefty price tag.

Advantages:

• Extensive knowledge of ESL teaching

• Includes built-in practical elements

• Often, the most reputable and legitimate course available

Disadvantages:

• Not flexible around your schedule

• Fixed locations mean you must live near a centre or be prepared to travel long distances

• Significantly higher price tag than other methods

Blended methods of getting ESL certified aim to combine the advantages of online teaching while also providing you with practical teaching knowledge. They are usually structured in two parts: a 100-hour online course to provide you with the theoretical knowledge, followed by a twenty-hour voluntary practical element. You will need to arrange your own practical hours with an ESL school, which means additional work for you, especially if you don't have an ESL school in your local area.

Advantages:

• Competitive pricing compared to other online courses

• Flexible around your schedule

• Semi-flexible with respect to your location

• Offers both theoretical and practical learning, though not extensively

Disadvantages:

• The certificate is dependent on completing your practical element, which could delay the process

• You will need to arrange your own practical learning

English 1 is looking for fantastic teachers to join our expanding team in China and Indonesia and will assist you in getting certified if you are successful through our application process. With over 300 schools in more than 60 cities across China for example, we can help you find the perfect city to match your needs.

We use a blended approach to ensure you are fully prepared for your teaching role. We help teachers get certified before they arrive, then supplement the theory with extensive onboarding and training to ensure you're ready for the classroom. The online component is a TEFL course, fully funded by English 1. This course has been vetted by us and offers the most well-rounded ESL certification in kids and teens, adults, and online teaching. You also have the added security of knowing that hundreds of new English teachers get certified and join our team in China and Indonesia every year.

Advantages:

• Completely free

• Stress-free and simple process

• Start your adventure before you're ESL certified

• Flexible to your location and schedule

• Extensive knowledge of ESL teaching with continuous development available from English 1 in China and Indonesia

There are many ways to get ESL certified, each one suited to different needs. However, if you're committed to starting your English teaching journey, English 1 offers a fantastic way to gain your certification and begin your adventure today. We go beyond just assisting with certification; we will also work alongside you to simplify the visa process and ensure you’re settled into your new life in China and Indonesia. If you're interested, use the link below to apply.